item details
NamePoster, 'We risk our lives to bring you food'
ProductionJames Beadle; artist; 1917; United Kingdom
Ministry of Food (Food Controller); publisher; 1917; United Kingdom
Ministry of Food (Food Controller); publisher; 1917; United Kingdom
Classificationpolitical posters
Materialsink, paper
Materials SummaryColour lithograph on paper
Techniquescolour lithography
DimensionsOverall: 764mm (height), 512mm (length)
Registration NumberGH014070
Credit lineGift of Department of Defence, 1919
Overview
This serious, muted First World War poster was a reminder of the high toll inflicted by German submarines on British merchant ships.
In 1917 the German submarine blockade of Britain had led to serious food shortages. This poster was part of a publicity campaign mounted by the Food Controller, Lord Rhondda, to encourage food economy instead of imposing food rationing.
Rationing was eventually introduced in 1918.